Why Do People Kill Themselves?

Information and resources

The common link among people who kill themselves is the belief that suicide is the
only solution to a set of overwhelming feelings. The attraction of suicide is that
it will finally end these unbearable feelings. The tragedy of suicide is that intense
emotional distress often blinds people to alternative solutions... yet other solutions
are almost always available. We all experience feelings of loneliness, depression, helplessness, and hopelessness, from time to time. The death of a family member,
the breakup of a relationship, blows to our self-esteem, feelings of worthlessness,
and/or major financial setbacks are serious which all of us may have to face at some
point in our lives. Because each person's emotional makeup is unique, each of us responds
to situations differently. In considering whether a person may be suicidal, it is
imperative that the crisis be evaluated from that person's perspective. What may seem
of minor importance to someone else - and an event that may be insignificant to you
can be extremely distressful to another. Regardless of the nature of the crisis, if
a person feels overwhelmed, there is danger that suicide may seem an attractive solution.

Danger Signals

At least 70 percent of all people committing suicide give some clue as to their intentions
before they make an attempt. Becoming aware of these clues and the severity of the
person's problems can help prevent such a tragedy. If a person you know is going through
a particularly stressful situation - perhaps having difficulty maintaining a meaningful
relationship, having consistent failure in meeting preset goals, or even experiencing
stress at having failed an important test- watch for other signs of crisis.

Many persons convey their intentions directly with statements such as "I feel like
killing myself," or "I don't know how much longer I can take this." Others in crisis
may hint at a detailed suicide plan with statements such as "I've been saving up my
pills in case things get really bad," or "Lately I've been driving my car like I really
don't care what happens." In general, statements describing feelings of depression, helplessness, extreme lone-lines, and/or hopelessness may suggest suicidal thoughts.
It is important to listen to these "cries for help" because they are usually desperate
attempts to communicate to others the need to be understood and helped.

Often persons thinking about suicide show outward changes in their behavior. They
may prepare for death by giving away prized possessions, making a will, or putting
other affairs in order. They may withdraw from those around them, change eating or
sleeping patterns, or lose interest in prior activities or relationships. A sudden,
intense lift in spirits may also be a danger signal, as it may indicate the person
already feels a sense of relief knowing the problems will "soon be ended."

Myths about Suicide

MYTH: "You have to be crazy even to think about suicide."

FACT: Most people have thought of suicide form time to time. Most suicides and suicide
attempts are made by intelligent, temporarily confused individuals who are expecting
too much of themselves, especially in the midst of a crisis.

MYTH: "Once a person has made a serious suicide attempt, that person is unlikely to
make another."

FACT: The opposite is often true. Persons who have made prior suicide attempts may
be at greater risk of actually committing suicide; for some, suicide attempts may
seem easier a second or third time.

MYTH: "If a person is seriously considering suicide, there is nothing you can do."

FACT: Most suicide crises are time-limited and based on unclear thinking. Persons
attempting suicide want to escape from their problems. Instead, they need to confront
their problems directly in order to find other solutions - solutions which can be
found with the help of concerned individuals who support them through the crisis period,
until they are able to think more clearly.

MYTH: "Talking about suicide may give a person the idea."

FACT: The crisis and resulting emotional distress will already have triggered the
thought in a vulnerable person. Your openness and concern in asking about suicide
will allow the person experiencing pain to talk about the problem which may help reduce
his or her anxiety. This may also allow the person with suicidal thoughts to feel
less lonely or isolated, and perhaps a bit relieved.

How You Can Help

Most suicides can be prevented by sensitive responses to the person in crisis. If
you think someone you know may be suicidal, you should:

* Remain calm. In most instances, there is no rush. Sit and listen - really listen
to what the person is saying. Give understanding and active emotional support for
his or her feelings.

* Deal directly with the topic of suicide. Most individuals have mixed feelings about
death and dying and are open to help. Don't be afraid to ask or talk directly about
suicide.

* Encourage problem solving and positive actions. Remember that the person involved
in emotional crisis is not thinking clearly; encourage him or her to refrain from
making any serious, irreversible decisions while in a crisis. Talk about the positive
alternatives which may establish hope for the future.

* Get assistance. Although you want to help, do not take full responsibility by trying
to be the sole counsel. Seek out resources which can lend qualified help, even if
it means breaking a confidence. Let the troubled person know you are concerned - so
concerned that you are willing to arrange help beyond that which you can offer.

UCLA suicide prevention experts have summarized the information to be conveyed to
a person in crisis as follows: "The suicidal crisis is temporary. Unbearable pain
can be survived. Help is available. You are not alone."